DE News Desk :
Stine Renate Haheim, State Secretary for International Development of the Norwegian government, met with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday at the State Guest House Jamuna, reaffirming Norway’s continued support for Bangladesh during its democratic transition.
Haheim conveyed greetings from Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and emphasized the strong, longstanding ties between the two nations. “You are a well-known and respected figure in Norway,” she told Prof Yunus. “Our Prime Minister often speaks of you with deep admiration.”
Professor Yunus, in turn, acknowledged Norway’s enduring support through critical junctures in Bangladesh’s history. “Norway has always stood beside us in times of need. Your contributions to our development journey are deeply appreciated,” he said.
Support for Democratic Progress
Haheim emphasized Norway’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s democratic progress. “We are here to express our solidarity with the people of Bangladesh as they move forward in this important transition. The expectations placed upon your leadership are immense,” she noted.
Prof Yunus discussed the political and economic challenges inherited by the interim administration, highlighting the impact of the July uprising and widespread corruption under the previous government. “We lost many lives. The economy suffered greatly. An estimated $16 billion was laundered every year under the past regime. Loans were misused, and we now face a mountain of unpaid obligations,” he said.
Despite these hurdles, Yunus expressed optimism, citing increased global interest in Bangladesh’s future. “At the recent BIDA Summit, major global corporations—including several from Norway—visited not out of obligation, but out of genuine belief in our potential,” he added.
Humanitarian Concerns and Rohingya Crisis
The Chief Adviser also urged Norway to continue its support for humanitarian initiatives, particularly for the Rohingya refugees residing in Bangladesh.
“These are real people with real hopes. Many arrived as children and have grown up in refugee camps, living their lives in uncertainty. They deserve a chance at a dignified future,” Yunus said.
Haheim recognized the scale of the humanitarian crisis and praised Bangladesh’s leadership in addressing it. “We deeply admire Bangladesh’s role in hosting and supporting the Rohingya. Norway is committed to working with you not just in development, but in building a broader, forward-looking partnership,” she affirmed.
The meeting was also attended by Senior Secretary and SDG Coordinator Lamiya Morshed and Md Mosharaf Hossain, Director General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.